Master's Degree Graduate Student in Policy Analysis
Overview
Become a master’s degree graduate student in Policy Analysis! Work at RAND while you go through the program and gain valuable on-the-job training in policy analysis.
The Pardee RAND Graduate School offers a Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) and Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Policy Analysis. Both degrees combine a rigorous curriculum with real-world training at a global policy research organization.
All Pardee RAND students work side-by-side with RAND experts as members of interdisciplinary research teams, creating a real impact on policy while earning their degree. As part of our unique degree program students graduate knowing they are ready to tackle the hardest policy challenges—because they already have!
Unlike other graduate programs, Pardee RAND faculty are RAND policy experts, deeply embedded in real-world decision-making circles. They are in the room where critical decisions happen and bring their unparalleled practical experience into your class. We are the only public policy graduate program backed by the brainpower and resources of a think tank.
Learn more about our academic programs »
Financial Package
We offer a range of financial support and benefits:
- Scholarships and an earned research fellowship that substantially offset tuition costs (earn upwards of $30,000 in your research fellowship in each year)
- Health insurance and other benefits
- A program designed to be completed in 21 months while also providing real-world work experience
- Use of a laptop computer
Learn more about our generous financial support »
Qualifications
Our students come from diverse personal and academic backgrounds, and about a third of our students come from outside the U.S. We welcome applicants from all majors and concentrations.
Our applicants must:
- be available to participate in our full-time combined research-and-study program at RAND’s headquarters in Santa Monica, California
- have completed a bachelor’s degree
- all majors and disciplines welcome
Application Elements
- An online application
- Resume or CV
- One statement of interest (750 words max)
- Letters of recommendation
- Test scores on the GRE or GMAT optional; TOEFL for some international students
- Unofficial transcripts
Learn more about our admissions process »
Attend a virtual admissions event or office hours
Please join us at a host of admissions events and office hours that provide an overview of the M.Phil. in Policy Analysis, the admissions process, and our degree requirements. You will have an opportunity to hear current students describe their experiences and share their perspectives on the program.
Receive early feedback on your candidacy
If you are interested in receiving preliminary feedback on your candidacy prior to investing your time in the 2024 admissions process, please consider submitting a pre-application.
Contact us
If you have any questions or wish to be in touch, please contact us at admissions@pardeerand.edu.